The Massachusetts Department of Correction has zero tolerance toward all forms of sexual abuse and sexual harassment and is committed to preventing, detecting, and responding to such conduct. The Department shall embrace the standards set forth by the National Prison Rape Elimination Commission and the American Correction Association for all state correctional jurisdictions.

The Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center is a truly unique Department of Correction facility. The facility houses two (2) very distinct populations: criminally sentenced, minimum-security, male inmates and civilly committed males participating in an up to 90-day detoxification program. Individuals participating in the program are committed to the facility under MGL 123, Section 35.

MISSION

Civil Commitment Population

The Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center's mission is to promote public safety by providing a safe, secure and structure treatment environment for court ordered civil commitments. This is accomplished through medically monitored detoxification services, substance abuse treatment andeducation including the tools to affect positive change and plans for aftercare in order to promote a healthier and more meaningful lifestyle upon reentry to the community.

Minimum-Security Inmate Population

Provide public safety through safe and humane care and custody practices. Promote an atmosphere of increased responsibility and accountability for the offender providing the basis for positive re-integration into society. Create an environment of mutual respect, fostering positive interactions between offenders, staff, and the public.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS:

Civil Commitment Population

The program services, provided by MPCH staff, include a comprehensive, multi-phase progression of classes in Relapse Prevention Training in conjunction with case management services, twelve-step programming, assistance in aftercare planning, and individual discharge planning for community-based treatment.

The principle component of treatment addresses substance dependence as an accumulation of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms. These symptoms are manifested by the individual's persistent use (of the substance) despite recurrent negative substance-related consequences. Further, continued use increases the individual's potential for increased tolerance, withdrawal and compulsive drug/alcohol use. At this time, medical detoxification is required to safety treat the physical symptoms of alcohol and drug withdrawal. Once the individual has withdrawn from alcohol and/or drugs, further treatment is required to address the cognitive and behavioral symptoms of the disease and assess for potential mental health issues.

Minimum-Security Inmates

Inmates work in a variety of job assignments at the facility. Job assignments are intended to provide the offender with opportunities for positive behavioral change while developing work skills and dependable work ethics. Good time is granted for those inmates in paid job assignment positions.

Inmates continue their re-entry planning while at the facility. To complement their efforts, several programs are available to assist in their preparation for transition from prison life into the community. Programs include Public Safety Transition Program, GED, ABE, ESL, Horticulture/Gardening Program, Finding the Spirit, Fatherhood, Anger Management, Relapse Prevention, Writing for the Soul, Help Wanted: Job Search, Life after Release, Violence Reduction, Thinking for a Change, Project Good Dog Program, Basic Computer Skills, AA meetings, NA meetings and various religious services. The facility is always researching other programming options. Good time is granted for participation in certain programs. Inmates are made aware of this at the commencement of these particular programs.

The facility has a variety of recreational activities for the inmate population. There is an indoor recreational room. Within this area, there is a television, ping pong table, pool table, books, games and areas for writing. Vending machines are also available in the recreation room for inmates to purchase food items.

The facility offers a large outside recreational area as well. There is a running/walking track, softball field, volleyball court, weight pit, and basketball courts.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

The facility welcomes volunteers who wish to present programs to either population. If interested, please contact one of the following individuals.